January 23, 2025 – 3 AM PT
Dear Editor, Despite the sweeping fire warnings from Santa Barbara down to San Diego, encompassing Riverside and San Bernardino counties, it was only the Los Angeles area that witnessed significant loss of life and property due to the Palisades and Eaton fires. The question stands: why L.A.?
Looking to prevent such devastating outcomes in the future, it’s imperative to convene an independent commission comprising experts to thoroughly investigate critical factors:
– Did L.A. experience more intense and destructive winds compared to other counties, rendering comparisons irrelevant?
– Was L.A. County uniquely susceptible due to its particular landscape, suboptimal brush management, or the presence of homeless encampments in flammable zones?
– Were the county’s first responders disadvantaged more than those in other regions due to staffing shortages, outdated or inadequate equipment, lack of water, or insufficient emergency preparation?
Given the troubling details already in the public eye, delving into these questions isn’t about casting blame; it’s essential to understanding and preventing future tragedies.
Russ Swartz, Granada Hills
—
Dear Editor, As I sift through the latest reports emerging from the ashes, I find myself at a loss for words. The enormity of it all is overwhelming.
I’m left with nothing to say. Silent.
Speechless.
Frederick Miller, Los Angeles
—
Dear Editor, Had the officials in Los Angeles been employees within a company, their handling of the fire crisis would have certainly led to their dismissal. My son’s house in Altadena was obliterated by the flames. There wasn’t the slightest warning, no firefighting units in sight, and he barely escaped ahead of the blaze. His story is one among countless tragedies. Some were not as fortunate and perished.
This was foreseen. The Santa Ana winds coupled with a dry winter should have been a glaring signal for the authorities to brace for disaster.
A change in leadership is crucial at all levels. We are enduring profound pain and disillusionment.
Kevin Collopy, Mission Viejo
—
Dear Editor, Having spent over sixty years in regions prone to hurricanes, I’ve noticed the recurring cycle of disaster response:
First, panic sets in. This is followed by the hunt for someone to blame. Innocent parties are often punished. Meanwhile, accolades are handed to those who played no part. There are vows to address the root causes. Priorities shift. And then, the cycle repeats.
Parrish Hirasaki, Culver City
